New Speed Cameras Will Be Installed In Baltimore Co. School Zones

TOWSON, Md. (WJZ)—Baltimore County prepares to install more speed cameras near school zones.

Political reporter Pat Warren reports the debate continues over the motive for using these money-making devices.

Goucher Boulevard between Putty Hill and Lasalle in Towson is one of five new locations designated for speed cameras in Baltimore County.

“It really tells people to slow down when you’re by schools,” said Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz.

The locations are near the Bais Yaakov School on Smith Avenue, Loch Raven Academy on Goucher, St. Ursula on Harford Road, Seven Oaks Elementary near Joppa Road and Winand Elementary on Scotts Level Road.

Kamenetz says the cameras get people to slow down.

“Frankly, we could probably just put a fake camera and a sign and get people to slow down,” he said.

But instead, they collect $40 a pop.

“I think it’s just a money grab for the state,” one driver said.

“I’m not for them. I think it’s unfair. How do I know it really works?” said Barbara Cochran.

“I guess it’s a necessary way to get revenue for the county,” said Dana Kipnis.

Baltimore County expects the cameras to cost less than $1.1 million to operate, issue more than 55,000 citations and drivers to pay almost $1.2 million in fines.

Kamenetz says it’s not about the money.

“Ah, listen I don’t care about the money part,” Kamenetz said. “This is really just trying to cover our costs and raise awareness in school zones to slow down, and that’s what people are doing. It’s working.”

For 30 days after each camera is activated drivers will receive citations for exceeding the speed limit by 12 mph or more. After that, the fines start.

In Baltimore County, the money raised by the cameras is to be spent on public safety projects.

The cameras will only be in use Monday through Friday between the hours of 6 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Pat Warren

Pat Warren joined the Eyewitness News team in 1992.
Pat came to WJZ from WBNS-TV in Columbus, Ohio where she had been a news anchor and general assignment reporter.
Her desire to give back to the community keeps Pat involved with many...